The discussion was held on 28 December.

Rector Ilshat Gafurov, acting in his capacity as the Chairman of Council of Rectors of Tatarstan, presented a brief overview of the year's impact on the educational and scientific systems.

The year has been marked with various responses to the COVID pandemic. In particular, employees of Kazan State Medical University are actively involved in consultations and treatment; overall, 258 employees have been working or are working in COVID treatment at this moment. Kazan State Medical Academy, an advanced training institution for practicing doctors, has introduced new study modules about the coronavirus. Kazan Federal University has been involved in vaccine research and test system production. KFU also opened a blood plasma bank to provide transfusions from recovered COVID patients.

Dr. Gafurov mentioned many steps made to support non-local students. During self-isolation measures, they all were provided with grocery packages and were exempt from dormitory payments. KFU has also implemented a program of temporary employment for students.

The universities have also advanced in international rankings. KFU is not in top 70 in QS Petroleum Engineering rankings and in top 90 in THE Education rankings.

The Rector also spoke about the unusual admission campaign, grant funding, and cooperation with industrial partners. He thanked the President and the Government of Tatarstan for their unyielding support.

President Minnikhanov commended the universities for their efforts and reminded that sanitary and epidemiological requirements are important and should be adhered to. He said that the academia should aspire to global goals.

He also noted the universities' participation in volunteer activities. Rector Gafurov was presented with a special medal and commendation letter from the President of Russia.

Source text: Leisan Zakirova, Office of the President of Tatarstan

Photos: Office of the President of Tatarstan

Translation: Yury Nurmeev